Nation's auto manufacturers focus on wider Asian market

Huge potential as Thai company places huge order for Aiways products

Asia is emerging after Europe as a new market for China-made new energy vehicles, attracting Chinese carmakers to introduce their cutting-edge products and scale up investment in the region.

Last week, Chinese manufacturer Aiways won an order for up to 150,000 electric vehicles from Thai e-mobility service provider Phoenix EV to be delivered over five years. The deal marks the largest EV order from Chinese carmakers worldwide.

"The cooperation with Phoenix EV represents a significant step for the Aiways brand," said Alexander Klose, executive vice-president of overseas operations at the carmaker.

"With its initial volume of 100,000 units, plus the option of 50,000 more, the order is a real milestone and the foundation for our Southeast Asia strategy," he said.

Both sides are planning to set up a joint venture to take over the sales and servicing of the vehicles, and also create its own charging and battery-swapping infrastructure.